Since Neal Morse (ex-Spock’s Beard) decided to embark on a (Christian) solo career in 2003, he has delivered a new studio album every year. “?” is the third in the row and follows hot on the heels of last year’s much appreciated “One” (five stars) and 2003’s “Testimony” (four stars). The good news is that “?” is another piece of classic progrock, featuring an impressive list of guest musicians. According to Neal, “?” deals with what he believes to be the mysteries of God. It’s his goal to make people think about that and to touch their hearts with his music. Well, he definitely won my heart with this kind of mysterious album, on which he once again sang, played the majority of the instruments and did the production. Very helpful were drummer Mike Portnoy (of Dream Theater fame) and bassist Randy George, who seem to have become Morse’s permanent rhythm section. Not only did they co-write “The Outsider” and parts of “12” and “Deliverance”, they also helped arranging the whole album.
In contrast to “One”, Morse decided to recruit several guest musicians this time around, including Dream Theater keyboard player Jordan Rudess, saxophone player Mark Leninger (who already contributed on the “Testimony” album) and guitarists Steve Hackett, Alan Morse (Spock’s Beard) and Roine Stolt (The Flower Kings). “Musically, this album is more concise”, explains Morse. “We’ve left out the complicated stuff and designed it more like a band project. That’s why the guest musicians’ performances are in the foreground more.” As far as I’m concerned, it’s a formula that definitely works. Although it’s part a concept album part a rock opera, it affected me straight away. “?” is surely another highlight from Neal and something all Asia, early Genesis and Yes fans should consider purchasing. (CL)
 

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cradle1scot (on 25/11/05) Some nice stuff here but to be honest it's more or less the same old stuff getting churned out constantly be Neil. Portnoy on the drums again palying the same old stuff again. Thats why I take another 1 star away. A change of direction by Neil is a must otherwise......   marciotex (on 25/11/05) excellent release!!   GlenRavine (on 14/11/05) I am a new fan of this guy - wasn't keen on the older stuff - nor the stuff from Beard. I must say - I truly enjoyed this DISC. Great tunes and production is top notch.   AORPOMPY (on 14/11/05) Another great piece of music from Neil. Since he left his mates in Spock's Beard, he seems to be more creative than ever. And the music he offers is not easy to swallow. It's intelligent prog rock, but done with class ! Not the best prog rock release of the year (Presto Ballet, Flagship, Dream Theater, Shadow Gallery etc. are better) ), but worth having in your collection !   theater66 (on 13/11/05) Excellent album with some great music, buy it and enjoy.   AOR Ive (on 10/11/05) I personaly think "One" is the best solo album Neal has released untill now and "?" is a very close second . This is indeed very melodic progressive rock and I personaly don't have any problems with the Christian lyrics ( on some other website / magazines some people are complaining about it ) . Another quality album by Neal , but the awesome Flagship album is for me personaly the prog rock album of the year .   rkblues (on 9/11/05) I aggree with Wolf...this CD is amazing...Neal blends melodic rock with prog...to the highest level without being overly technical. Another winner from Mr. Morse. The positive message is also refreshing in these times of doom & gloom.   WOLF 359 (on 31/10/05) Brilliant i love it ,it's got some great songs and some great musicianship. Simply put wonderful

 

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